Hunger gnawed at Mulder's belly, it had been four nights since he'd last eaten. Demetrius had kept him on a diet of only water, in order to purify his system. To make matters worse, Mulder hadn't seen his lover or Skinner since the day of their abduction. He could hear their voices coming from the cavern next to the small cave he was in. The one time he tried to call out to them, Demetrius silenced him by putting a ball gag in his mouth.

"It is time, Fox." Demetrius kneeled beside him and unlocked the ankle manacle. He gripped Mulder's handcuffed wrists and pulled him to his feet.

Mulder staggered against him, too weak to walk unsupported as Demetrius guided him into the larger cavern. His eyes fell on Jena's nude body chained spread-eagle inside the left half of a pentagram. A hood was over her head preventing Mulder from seeing her face.

His lover and Skinner were chained to a wall on the far side of the large space. Mulder could see bruises on both men's ankles and wrists from their countless struggles to free themselves over the past few days.

"John, I love you," Mulder said, a tear ran down his cheek as he gazed longingly at his lover.

The words brought tears to Doggett's eyes. "Fox, I'll love you always. I'm sorry I failed to protect you."

Demetrius started stripping his captive when Mulder suddenly lashed out. Both men tumbled to the ground as Mulder slammed his elbow into Demetrius' throat. The hermaphrodite gasped for breath as Mulder struck him repeatedly. Mulder scrambled for a large rock lying on the floor several feet away. Demetrius regained his breath and started chanting, weaving a spell. Mulder dropped the rock and discovered his limbs wouldn't move.

Demetrius stood and wiped the blood from his lips as he walked over to Mulder. He kneeled beside him and finished removing his captive's clothes, cutting the fabric off Mulder's cuffed wrists. His hand stroked the warm flesh of Mulder's back and ass.

"Leave him alone!" Doggett twisted at the chains holding him prisoner.

"He's beautiful, isn't he? I can see why you both love him." Demetrius scooped Mulder's lanky body up in his arms and easily carried him into the pentagram, where he chained Mulder spread-eagle beside Jena. He then painted a symbol on Mulder's stomach, using Jena's blood. He recited an ancient incantation as he brushed on each line of the symbol. Incense and black candles burned throughout the cavern, casting an eerie light. They dimmed as dark shapes rose through the cavern's floor.

A loud wailing sounded and a crack of thunder, so loud, Skinner and Doggett thought their eardrums would pop. Wind swirled sand into the air, pelting them with sharp particles. They had to close their eyes.

Jena started screaming. Demetrius held a curved knife over her body, watching as her belly became concave. Then he drove the knife through her heart. The spirits flowed around her dead body lifting it as far as the chains permitted. Demetrius unlocked the manacles, and the spirits carried her to the bottomless pit on the other side of the cavern and surged in with her.

Skinner peered through partially closed lids, watching the terrifying spectacle. He never heard the body hit bottom. He opened his eyes as the wind stilled and glanced at Mulder's unconscious body. He gasped at the paleness of the flesh that was lit by dozens of candles. Demetrius freed Mulder's limbs and spread his legs. He smiled with satisfaction at what he saw.

"It is time, Agent Doggett," Demetrius said, leaving Mulder he walked over to the two men. He left Doggett hands cuffed behind his back as he unlocked the manacles holding the agent to the wall.

"I can't do thi--" Doggett kicked out at him.

Demetrius was ready, grabbing the foot and twisting it. Doggett landed on his belly and Demetrius grabbed his hair, pulling the agent's head back. He tightened his arm around Doggett's throat. "You will or I'll kill Walter and impregnate Fox myself. Is that what you want?"

"No."

"I didn't think so. As soon as you plant your seed within his womb, I will set you all free." Demetrius unlocked the handcuffs and left Doggett lying on the ground as he walked over to Skinner and held his bloody knife against Skinner's throat.

Doggett felt sick as his eyes met Skinner's.

"Remove your clothes, Agent Doggett."

Doggett did as ordered. Then he walked over to Mulder's body and kneeled between his lover's legs. He swallowed when he got the first glimpse of the vagina that was now a part of Fox's body. His hand shook as he positioned his penis against his lover's new orifice. Doggett was surprised to find that he was hard and dripping as his cockhead touched the hot entrance. The orifice felt tight and moist as he thrust all the way home. He detached himself from his surroundings as he quickened his thrusts, wanting to end this as quickly as possible for him and Fox.

A moan escaped Mulder's lips, bringing Doggett back to the present. He gazed into his lover's bewildered hazel eyes just as the first, of several orgasms racked Mulder's body, sending a shiver up Doggett's spine as the vagina squeezed his shaft exquisitely.

Mulder felt disconcerted as he experienced extreme pleasures of multiple orgasms. It was as if he was removed from reality and it took him a moment to realize just where he was and what was happening to him. He gazed up at his lover's distressed face just as John climaxed inside of him.

Demetrius smiled. "It is done. Fox, you are now carrying Agent Doggett's baby inside your womb."

Mulder shook his head weakly and passed out.

"You've done your job, it is time for you to return home." Demetrius recited a spell and all three men were rendered unconscious. He dressed Mulder and Doggett then carried all three men one at a time to his car for the long drive back to D.C.

***

Mulder stared off into space. He didn't respond when Doggett walk into the room and draped a blanket around him.

The doorbell rang and Doggett glanced sadly at his lover before going to answer it.

"Hi, John. How is he?" Skinner asked, stepping into the foyer.

"I think he's in shock."

"Maybe we should take him to the hospital."

"No." Doggett walked back into the living room and sat next to Mulder, wrapping his arms around his lover. "I don't want anyone finding out what happened to him. We agreed, Walter."

"I know but I thought he'd come around by now."

"It's only been a day. Give him time."

Mulder rested his head on Doggett's shoulder and softly wept.

"It's going to be okay, Fox." Doggett kissed the top of his head and held him closer.

Skinner felt his heart wrench. "John, they're asking questions. They want to know why Tatev would abduct us. I told them it was for revenge, but Tatev had a change of heart and let us go."

"Did they believe you?"

"I don't know. No one questioned me further and they're launching a full-scale manhunt into all the mountain ranges within a days ride of D.C."

"They'll never find him." Doggett reached into his pocket and removed a key from his key ring. "Here."

Skinner took the key. "What's this for?"

"So you don't have to ring the doorbell." Doggett stood, helping Mulder to his feet.

"Thanks, I need to get back to the office. " Skinner paused in the doorway. "Scully was pretty upset that you wouldn't let her see Mulder."

"If she wants to apologize for treating him like shit, I'll let her see him once he's better," Doggett said.

"They've risked their lives for one another--"

"Maybe she should have remembered that before taking William away from him."

"I'll stop by after work to see how he's doing."

After Skinner left Doggett helped Mulder upstairs and put him to bed.

***

Mulder pushed the cup of broth away. "John, where...?"

Doggett sighed. "God, Fox, you were beginning to scare me. We're at home...we've been home for over three days."

Mulder's eyes widened. "It wasn't a dream then, was it?"

"No."

Mulder shoved Doggett out of his way and ran into the bathroom. He dropped to his knees in front of the toilet and vomited.

Doggett wet a washcloth and kneeled beside Mulder. He wiped his lover's sweaty brow and mouth. "Fox, I love you. Nothing is going to change that."

"The bastard's turned me into a fucking freak."

"You're not a freak. You're the same man I fell in love with." Doggett tried to hug Mulder, but was pushed away.

"Don't touch me."

"Fox."

"Please don't crowd me."

"Fox, I just need to know that you're okay. You spent the last three days in a catatonic state."

"I don't know if I'll ever be okay again!" Mulder said, "Maybe you should rethink being in love with me."

"Never! Love isn't something you can turn on and off like a light switch."

"I-I'm going to sleep in the guest bedroom." Mulder stood and hurried out of the bathroom. His whole body felt strange and he couldn't tolerate being touched.

Doggett stayed kneeling as he watched him go. He rubbed his hand over his face in frustration. He was determined to be patient for as long as it took.

The telephone rang and he hurried out of the bathroom. "John Doggett."

"John, its Walter. How's Fox?"

"He's back among the living, but he's having a hard time dealing with what's happened to him. How's Minneapolis?"

"The field office seems to have everything in order. I wish I could be there right now."

"You're the Deputy Director, Walter, Fox will understand."

***

The image in the mirror looked like him, but Mulder knew that it wasn't. He was no longer the same man...God, he was no longer a man. It angered him that John wasn't upset about what happened to him.

How could John want to touch him, knowing that he had that woman's--

Fuck, he couldn't even think it! Mulder could feel it between his legs, secreting some moisture into his boxers. He hadn't attempted to touch or look at it. Maybe it would disappear if he didn't think about it.

He walked into the bedroom and curled up on top of the covers fully clothed. It's been two days since he came back to awareness and he hadn't bothered to change his clothes. Closing his eyes, he fell into a troubled sleep.

When Mulder came down to breakfast the next morning, he ignored Doggett who was at the counter watching him. Mulder poured himself a cup of coffee and went to sit at the breakfast table.

Doggett attempted to ignore the rumpled state his lover was in--Mulder was beginning to smell bad. After three days of not shaving Mulder was finally getting a five o'clock shadow, which was another indication of his change.

"Fox, would you like me to make you an omelet?"

"No."

"Are you planning on going to work today?"

"No."

"Did you call the University?"

"No."

"Would you like me to call for you?"

"Yes."

"I'm going to ask for two weeks of emergency leave for you. Is that okay?"

"Yes."

"I have to go into work today. Are you going to be all right alone?"

"Yes."

Doggett frowned. He hated leaving Mulder here alone, but he really needed to get back to work.

After Doggett left, Mulder walk over to the telephone and hesitantly picked up the receiver. He dragged the phone number up from his eidetic memory and dialed it.

Mulder's hand shook as a man answered. "Riley's residence."

"May I please speak with Andrew Riley?"

"Speaking."

"Mr. Riley, I don't know if you'll remember me. My name is Fox Mulder, I--"

"Of course I remember you. What can I do for you, Mr. Mulder?"

"I'd like to stop by and ask you some questions... Ah, nothing official and all answers will be held in the strictest confidence."

There was a long pause on the other end, before Riley spoke again. "Okay, but I prefer we meet out in public."

"How about we meet for lunch at the Papermoon diner in Baltimore?" Mulder knew that it was close to Riley's office.

"Okay, Mr. Mulder, I'll meet you there at noon."

After hanging up, Mulder hurried upstairs, he needed to shower and put on some clean clothes before heading to Baltimore. He peeled off his smelly clothes and threw them into the hamper in their closet. Mulder hesitated in front of the full-length mirror in the bathroom. It was the first time he'd been nude since his abduction. He was relieved that he couldn't see any outward sign of the vagina from his front or as he turned to look at his rear.

Mulder reached down and touched his penis then wrapped his fingers around its soft length and started pumping until it thickened and lengthened. He breathed a sigh of relief and let go of it, no longer worried that his change had affected that part of him. Since female and male sex organs don't usually function on normal hermaphrodites, one sex is generally favored over the other. Whatever Demetrius had done to him and the others, it allowed both sex organs to function normally. He turned on the shower and stepped under the spray. Soaping up, he avoided washing between his thighs for as long as possible. Finally giving in to the need to be clean, he ran the soapy washcloth over his anus and new orifice. He shuddered as he cleaned some slimy fluid away from the opening.

He turned off the water and stepped out of the shower, toweling off as he walked into the closet searching for something to wear. Mulder pulled on a pair of boxers, jeans, and carried his sweater into the bathroom, hanging it on a hook behind the door. He went to the sink and shaved, splashing on some after-shave.

Mulder was five minutes late when he arrived at the diner in Baltimore. He found Riley waiting in a back booth for him. "I'm sorry I'm late."

The waitress sashayed over. "May I get you something to drink?"

"A glass of water please," Mulder said, reaching for a menu and scanning the items. Most of the items made him nauseous, even his favorite greasy burger.

The waitress came back with his water and pulled out her order pad. "Are you both ready to order?"

"Yes, I'll have the Porky Burger and add a slice of Swiss cheese to that," Riley said.

"Bring me a cup of chicken noodle soup and a turkey sandwich," Mulder said, opting for the blandest sounding food on the menu. Even the perfume the waitress was wearing made his stomach turn. He hoped he wasn't coming down with a flu bug.

After the waitress left, Riley turned to Mulder. "Okay, ask away."

"How long did it take for you to adjust to what Tatev did to you?"

"I still haven't completely adjusted. I don't think I ever will. If it weren't for my wife I might have killed myself early on."

"But how were you able to deal with it?"

Riley's laughed. "I had two choices, Mr. Mulder. I could crawl into myself and hide or go on with my life and learn to live with what he did to me. I chose life and I have a healthy daughter to remind me daily of all that I have to live for."

"How did it feel to be pregnant?"

"Terrifying and at the same time incredible. I don't think I can describe what it felt like the first time I felt my daughter move and I'll never forget her birth."

The waitress came back with their meals. Riley picked up his burger and took a bite out of it. Grease ran down his chin. Mulder felt his stomach lurch and quickly excused himself, making it into a stall in the men's room just in time. He flushed the toilet and rinsed out his mouth in the sink.

Riley looked up at Mulder as he slid back into the booth. "Are you all right, Mr. Mulder?"

"I'm fine...it's just a flu bug." Mulder picked up his soupspoon and ate quietly as he thought about what Riley had told him.

"Have I answered all of your questions?"

"Yes." Mulder wanted to ask him specific questions about having a vagina, but figured Riley would start to get suspicious.

End of Part 9

Doggett was exhausted when he finally arrived home. Over a week's worth of paperwork had been waiting for him when he arrived at work this morning.

He was surprised to find Mulder in the kitchen with their dinner warming in the oven.

"Fox, you cooked?"

"Yeah, I figured you'd be hungry." Mulder opened the oven and removed the pork tenderloin with roasted vegetables. "Do you want to change out of your suit first?"

"No. I'm starving." Doggett opened the refrigerator and pulled out the jar of applesauce.

Mulder smiled. His lover couldn't eat pork without applesauce or chicken without cranberry sauce. It was one of the quirks Mulder loved about John, that, and his secret stash of pop tarts.

Doggett reached up hesitantly and caressed the side of Mulder's face. "You're smiling. I didn't think I'd see you do that for a while." He wanted to tell Mulder how beautiful he was, but he held off worried about the response he'd receive.

"I met with Andrew Riley today. I decided to take his advice."

"You didn't tell Riley about what Tatev did to you?"

"No."

"What advice did he give you?"

Mulder shrugged his shoulders. "I asked him how he was able to coop with what had been done to him. He said there wasn't any choice but to accept it and move on with his life."

Doggett pulled Mulder into his arms and hugged him. "I'm so happy to have you back."

Mulder froze, squashing the desire to push him away. "L-Let's eat, John boy."

Doggett frown at the edge he heard in his lover's voice. "Okay, Fox."

***

Thursday, October 3, 2002

First Month - 1st trimester

Skinner parked in front of Mulder's and Doggett's home. He walked up to the front door and entered using the key Doggett had given him. It had been almost two weeks since he was here last. The past ten days Skinner spent traveling to different field offices throughout the country and touring their facilities.

He found Doggett in the kitchen preparing dinner. "How's Fox doing?"

"Better, but he still hasn't accepted that he might be pregnant. I bought one of those home pregnancy kits, but he refuses to take it."

Skinner leaned up against the counter, watching Doggett chop up several carrots. "John, we need to find a doctor we can trust to examine him. I think we should ask Scully."

"No. I don't want her involved in this. We'll find someone else." Doggett picked up a potato and handed it to Skinner with a paring knife.

Skinner took the hint and started peeling it. "Maybe we should ask the gunmen. They might know of someone we can trust."

"I was thinking about going to see Senator Woods. He likes Fox and has offered to help us, if we ever need it."

"How much will you tell him?" Skinner asked, picking up another potato, while Doggett cubed the one he had peeled.

"I'd be surprised if he didn't already suspect or know what has happened to Fox. The man is so well informed it's spooky."

"John, I'd like to go with you when you talk to the Senator."

"Thanks, I could use your support." Doggett tossed the cubed potato in the stew pot, and then leaned back against the counter. "Walter, I would like you to consider moving in with us? Fox needs both of us right now."

"I was going to suggest it, John. When you're away on field assignments, I don't like the idea of him being here alone."

"We have an extra-large, King-sized bed, so you won't have to use the guestroom." Doggett nervously met Skinner's eyes--they hadn't had sex yet so he might be asking too much.

"Shouldn't I have a say?" Mulder said from the doorway, his arms hugging his body.

John looked into his lover's eyes. "I thought we already agreed, Fox?"

Mulder sighed, "I guess we did. I just don't like the feeling that I'm getting a babysitter. Walter, if you move in with us, it will be as our lover, not on the pretence of taking care of me."

Skinner walked over and hugged him. "Fox, I wouldn't have it any other way." He sealed their lips with a kiss. His hands trailing down to Mulder's ass, squeezing and caressing the firm globes. Skinner could feel the swell of an erection against his hip.

Mulder suddenly pushed him away, turning he fled from the room.

"Fox! Wait! What's wrong!" Skinner started to go after him, but Doggett stopped him.

"Walter, give him some space. He's having a hard time being touched."

"Isn't there something we can do?"

"Don't crowd him...allow Fox to initiate any contact. Until five days ago, he was sleeping in the back bedroom. As long as I don't touch him down there, he's fine being in bed with me." Doggett dumped the remaining vegetables in the stew.

"Maybe we should take him to see a psychiatrist," Skinner said.

"Maybe we should give him some time to adjust to what's been done to him." Doggett took a beer out of the refrigerator. "Do you want one?" At Skinner's nod, he tossed him a beer.

***

Mulder stood in the middle of the bathroom his face red with embarrassment. Not only had he gotten an erection while Skinner was kissing him, but he felt a sudden dampness between his legs. He peeled off his pants, relieved that there wasn't a noticeable wet spot. His boxers were damp. Reaching between his legs, Mulder probed the source of the dampness. The vagina was hot and slick. He brought his finger away and sniffed the familiar smelling fluid. He'd never forget that scent. Mulder had lost track of the number of times he had orally pleasured female lovers over the years.

He stripped off his boxers and tossed them in the hamper, hoping he wasn't going to have to buy a box of panty shields. Talk about humiliating. Mulder wet a washcloth and thoroughly cleaned and dried himself. Dressing, he decided to go back down to the kitchen, instead of hiding up in the bedroom.

He found his lover and Skinner sitting at the breakfast table drinking a beer. A cold beer sounded good, so Mulder walked over to the refrigerator and pulled out a Miller Light.

"Put it back, Fox," Doggett said.

"Why? I'm thirsty."

"Then have some juice or water. You shouldn't be drinking in your condition."

"What condition is that?" Mulder opened the can.

"You're pregnant."

"I am not pregnant."

"Then take the test and prove it." Doggett stood and walked over to him, taking the beer away. "I won't allow you to harm our baby."

"Okay, fine. I'll take the damn test, but if it comes up positive I'm getting an abortion." Mulder pulled the pitcher of orange juice out of the refrigerator, not in the mood for a confrontation with his lover.

"You know how I feel about that, Fox."

"It's my body."

"It's our baby."

Skinner silently sided with Mulder. He felt it wasn't his place to get in the middle of their argument--at least not yet.

Mulder carried his glass of juice over to the table and sat next to Skinner. "Walter, I'm sorry I ran earlier."

"Do you want to tell me why?" Skinner asked as Doggett joined them at the table.

"It's embarrassing." Mulder blushed and looked down at the table. "I...was so turned on when you grabbed my ass that I wet my boxers."

"You peed--"

"No...the vagina secreted some fluid."

Skinner and Doggett exchanged glances over the table.

"Fox, you have nothing to be embarrassed about. Those things happen--" Skinner started to say, but Mulder cut him off.

"Those things don't happen to men."

"Maybe we should talk about this," Doggett said. They all knew from Scully's examination of Andrew Riley that it was impossible to remove the reproductive organs without killing him. Whatever Demetrius had done to these men, it was irreversible.

Mulder rubbed his temples. "I-I'm at my wits ends, John. How can you stand being near me? I have that evil woman's--"

"God dammit! Fox, I love you! The organs are one hundred percent yours. They contain your genetic makeup and DNA. The baby you're carrying will be yours and mine," Doggett said.

Mulder ignored the last part of his lover's rant. "Doesn't my having a vagina repulse you?"

"Fox, don't take this wrong, but I'm turned on by the idea of you having one more area where I can pleasure you and receive pleasure," Doggett said.

Skinner placed a hand on Mulder's shoulder. "We haven't made love yet, Fox, but I totally agree with John."

"You don't consider me a freak?"

"No, Fox."

Doggett stood and walked over to the stove and put the stew on simmer. He walked back to the table and yanked his lover to his feet. "C'mon, Fox. Walter and I are going to show you how much you turn us on."

"John, I don't--"

"Shut up, Fox." Doggett stopped his protest with a kiss. "You brought up the subject. It's now up to Walter and me to convince you how we feel."

Skinner stepped behind Mulder and wrapped his arms around the lean body, grinding his erection into the younger man's ass. Then he kissed Doggett over Mulder's shoulder.

Mulder was turned on watching them. Then both men focused on sucking, kissing, and licking his face and neck. His head fell back on Skinner's shoulder. The sensation of being sandwiched between two strong bodies with their mouths leaving erotic marks over every inch of his exposed flesh was turning him to mush. His erection pressed against John's while moistness spread between his legs. "Oh, God." His legs felt weak and he was grateful that his lovers were holding him up.

Doggett deftly unbuttoned Mulder's shirt as his lips trailed down his lover's chest, finding and sucking a nipple. He relished the salty taste of sweat and the feel of the hard nub against the tip of his tongue. His hand moved to lovingly caress his lover's flat belly.

Mulder laced his fingers through Doggett's hair, holding him in place. While his other hand snaked around the back of Skinner's head as the large man made another mark on the flesh above his collar bone. Mulder was writhing and moaning nonstop as pleasure shot through his entire body. He cried out as their loving caresses and mouths caused him to come. Mulder suddenly found himself on the kitchen floor without his clothes. Somehow Skinner had moved from behind him to between his spread thighs. Doggett was sucking Mulder's cock as Skinner positioned Mulder's legs over his shoulders and pushed inside his tight heat.

There was a brief moment of discomfort then the weirdest sensation Mulder had ever experienced. It took him a moment to realize that his anus hadn't been penetrated. He experienced a fleeting moment of panic that was replaced by a rush of pleasure, causing his hips to rock in time with Skinner's downward thrusts. Mulder wondered just how large Skinner was, it felt like a baseball bat ramming into him.

Skinner was making grunting sounds as he thrust into Mulder. He wanted to tell Mulder how much he loved him, but the incredible feeling of finally being inside the younger man and the arousing scent coming from him was more than his brain could process...he was at a loss for words. Skinner didn't want this moment to end, and was looking forward to the day when he could ride Mulder bare, without the condom. He looked down at Doggett's head bobbing up and down on Mulder's cock.

Doggett swallowed it, his throat muscles squeezed around the sensitive head, causing Mulder to come explosively. Multiple orgasms wracked Mulder's body as his vagina bore down on the hard shaft penetrating it. The world narrowed and dimmed again. Coming back to consciousness, Mulder was surprised to find John now fucking him while Skinner kissed and caressed his sweaty face. As Skinner's tongue licked over his lips, Mulder opened his mouth taking it inside.

"I love you, Fox," Skinner said softly.

"I-I love you, too." Mulder looked up at him with wide eyes, realizing he actually did love Walter. It took saying the words to John for him to admit his feelings for Walter, too. As Mulder felt himself about to come again, he tightened his muscular legs around Doggett's body. Throwing back his head, Mulder cried out as he experienced another mind-blowing orgasm.

"Oh God, Fox...you're so fucking hot and tight," Doggett moaned. The speed and length of his thrusts slowed as his shaft was squeezed in a viselike grip. His balls crept up and he came with a cry, collapsing on Mulder and crushing his lover's balls and penis between them.

Skinner's hand stroked Doggett's back while his fingers combed through Mulder's hair.

Mulder was breathing heavily as he lay with his head on Skinner's lap. Under his back the hardwood floor was damp with sweat. He noticed that while he was completely naked, his lovers were still partially clothed. Their shirts stuck to their sweaty bodies and their pants were around their ankles. They must have been in a real hurry to fuck him. Mulder turned his head and nuzzled Skinner's large penis, happy with the size of his new lover. It took several minutes before any of them were in any condition to move.

Doggett raised his head and smiled down at Mulder. "I hope you're hungry, Fox."

"For some reason I'm famished." Mulder knew John was worried about how little he'd been eating during the past two weeks.

Skinner brushed the damp bangs off Mulder's forehead. "Fox, why don't you go and take a shower while John and I clean up the mess we made."

"You both could use a shower, too," Mulder said, allowing Doggett to help him to his feet.

Doggett pulled up his pants, zipping them then went to wash his hands. "I need to finish dinner. Why don't you and Walter share a shower? I'll grab one after dinner."

Mulder walked over to him, placing his hand on Doggett's arm as he leaned in to kiss him. "Thank you, John."

Skinner picked up Mulder's shirt, pants, and shoes, while the younger man recovered his underwear and socks. Watching Mulder's ass as they climbed the stairs to the bedroom was turning Skinner hard again.

"Walter, just toss your clothes in the laundry bag. We take turns doing the washing and ironing." Mulder placed his shoes on the closet floor. "We'll have to shift some stuff around in here to make room for your things, luckily John isn't a clothes hound."

"Fox, you were really upset earlier. Are you sure you're all right now?" Skinner asked, while pulling off his clothes.

Mulder smiled and shrugged his shoulders. "I'm still scared out of my mind, but you and John helped me to see what's...who's important in my life."

"I'm here for you, Fox. If you ever need to talk, I'm willing to listen." Skinner followed Mulder into the large bathroom.

Mulder turned on the shower. "What if I'm really pregnant?" He knew he couldn't keep denying it, not when he just spent the last forty minutes being fucked up his vagina.

"You'll get an abortion--"

"No. I don't think I can do that." Mulder stepped into the shower.

Skinner joined him. "John will come around in time."

"You don't know him like I do. John loves kids. We even discussed adopting once after Scully transferred to San Francisco." Mulder wasn't sure he could go through with an abortion. He was pro-choice, but if he was pregnant, he doubted he'd be able to abort the life growing inside him.

"I guess, I don't really know John as well as you. Fox, I'll stick by you no matter what decision you make." Skinner used the shower gel to smooth soap on Mulder's chest.

Mulder returned the favor, soaping up Skinner's hairy chest. "I lost quite a bit of body hair since I changed."

"It must have to do with the hormonal changes your body has gone through. You really need to be checked over by a specialist, Fox."

"I need to find someone I can trust. I thought about calling Scully, but I don't want to intrude on her new life."

"John wants to check with Senator Woods."

Mulder smiled softly. "I should have thought of that. The Senator has been supportive of John and me over the past year. If anyone could find a specialist for me and keep this quiet it's him."

"Fox, just how close to Woods are you?"

"He's been like an uncle to me this past year. John and I have been invited to dinner with him and his son numerous times." Mulder hugged Skinner's slick body and rested his head on the larger man's shoulder. The water beat down upon them as he sighed. "I had an informant who was killed because of me. The Senator reminds me a great deal of him. I have a feeling that it was Woods who Deep throat worked for."

Skinner hugged Mulder back. "I'm sorry, Fox."

"C'mon, Walter, let's rinse off and see if John has dinner ready."

End of Part 10

Mulder's eyes widened as he stared at Senator Woods, standing in their front doorway. The Senator had never visited their home before, he always sent a limousine to pick them up. Stepping aside, Mulder allowed the Senator and a dark-haired man carrying a doctor's bag to enter.

"Senator, this is unexpected...."

Doggett and Skinner came out of the kitchen and looked equally surprised to see the Senator.

"I know, Mr. Mulder." He smiled warmly. "I think we all need to talk. Shall we go into your parlor?"

They followed him into the living room off the foyer. The Senator made himself at home, taking a seat beside the fireplace. "This is Doctor Dale Moore, he's a board certified obstetrician and gynecologist. He's also been a member of my secret society for the past twenty years. You can trust him to keep your secret, Mr. Mulder."

"You know?" Mulder paled.

Doggett put a comforting arm around his lover's waist. "It's okay, Fox. He's here to help us." Doggett was upset that the Senator had found out, without them having to tell him, but for Mulder's sake he wasn't going to show it.

"I've known since the first week you were returned. Mr. Mulder, you're one of the bravest men I've ever known. It's not like you to take two weeks of emergency absence from your teaching job. Something traumatic must have happened to affect you, but not Agent Doggett and DD Skinner. I just put two and two together."

"Don't worry, Mr. Mulder, I can keep a secret, and I look forward to being your Doctor," Moore said.

"We still don't know if I'm pregnant." Mulder crossed his arms over his chest, feeling uncomfortable with everyone's attention focused on him.

"Mr. Mulder, is the baby's father Demetrius Tatev?" Woods asked gently.

"*If* I'm pregnant, John's the father."

"Then that's the first thing we need to determine," Doctor Moore said. "Is there a room in the house where I can examine you?"

Mulder looked at the Doctor suspiciously. Moore was slightly older than Walter, and had the air of a military man about him.

"We can go to our bedroom." Mulder chewed his lip nervously.

"John, go with them. I'll stay and keep the Senator company," Skinner said, not trusting the Doctor alone with Mulder.

"Don't worry, Deputy Director Skinner, Mr. Mulder is in good hands," Woods said as the three men left the room.

"I always worry where Fox is concerned."

The Senator smiled warmly. "I've noticed that over the years. You threw away your career to protect him."

"He is worth more to me than my career. Would you like a drink?"

"Yes, Scotch if you have it?"

"I have excellent Scotch at my apartment." Skinner walked over to Doggett's liquor cabinet. "I'm not really sure what John has--" He smiled at the collection of alcohol in the liquor cabinet, but not a bottle of Scotch in sight. Most of the bottles, except a bottle of Jack Daniel's, were unopened. Skinner pulled out a bottle of Rock and Rye.

"Is that Rock and Rye? I haven't had that since I was in college, pour me a glass on the rocks," the Senator said.

"I've never tried it." Skinner studied the label. "My father used to drink it. I think I'll join you."

"Its name comes from the piece of rock candy at the bottom of each bottle."

Skinner carried the ice bucket into the kitchen. The dishes were soaking in the sink. They had been in the process of cleaning up when the Senator arrived. At least they had finished eating. He smiled remembering how much food Fox had packed away.

He returned with the ice, plopping a couple of cubes into each tumbler and pouring the liqueur over the ice. He handed the Senator a glass then sat in the chair across from him.

"You're doing an excellent job, DD Skinner. The FBI needed someone with your attention for detail and concern for your agents for a long time." The Senator sipped his drink.

"Thank you, Senator. How's your son doing?"

"He's fine. He wants to go into politics, so he's going to run for the Maryland State senate." The Senator looked firmly at Skinner. "Always keep your love ones safe, DD Skinner. They're more important than all the money and power in the world."

"Is there a reason you're telling me this?"

"Fox will need both you and John in the coming months. He's about to go through an experience that few men could handle. If it comes to choosing between the FBI and him, I hope you make the right decision."

Skinner looked resolutely into the Senator's wise eyes and said, "Don't worry, I'll choose Fox. You already know that I'm moving in here with him and John."

"I suspected it. I'm happy for you, DD Skinner. The child will have three loving and protective fathers to raise him or her."

Skinner wondered how Mulder was getting on with the Doctor.

***

Doctor Moore looked at the strip, confirming that Mulder was indeed pregnant.

He walked back into the bedroom. "Congratulations."

"I hope you're congratulating me because I'm not pregnant," Mulder said. He sat cross-legged on the bed dressed only in a robe with Doggett sitting next to him holding his hand. The Doctor had examined Mulder's female organs earlier and took a pap smear. He also took a urine and blood sample.

"No. You're pregnant." He put the samples into his case.

Mulder sighed. "Doctor, what should I expect...?"

"This first month you might experience nausea, food aversions or cravings, fatigue and sleeplessness. Your emotions may be in turmoil, you might be irritable, act irrational, and be quick to cry."

"Oh great," Mulder muttered. He was already experiencing sleeplessness, but he doubted that was from being pregnant.

"We'll need to set up a room in your house with the proper medical equipment. I'm sure you wouldn't want to come to my clinic." The Doctor smiled. He was excited by the prospect of taking care of a pregnant male patient.

"No. We definitely would not want to come to your clinic," Doggett said. "What equipment are we going to need?"

"I'll give Senator Woods a list. He's offered to pick up the expense of the items and my bills."

"That isn't necessary, we have money--" Mulder started to say, but Moore interrupted.

"Mr. Mulder, you need to keep a low profile. If you paid for my services and the medical equipment, it might get out to the press. We both know how important it is to keep this quiet."

"We know, Doctor Moore," Doggett said. "Fox, do you want to get dressed? I'll take the Doctor downstairs." He was rather surprised that Fox hadn't asked the Doctor about aborting the baby.

"Sure, John." Mulder lay back on the bed, his hand resting over his belly. "Just give me a few minutes...I need to think."

Doggett leaned down and kissed him softly. "Take as long as you need. Walter and I can work out any necessary arrangements with Senator Woods and Doctor Moore." He climbed off the bed and led the Doctor back downstairs.

Mulder stared up at the ceiling as his hand caressed the flat plain of his belly. Now that he knew for certain that he was pregnant, Mulder realized he couldn't go through with an abortion. Not so much because of how John felt, but because of how he felt. There was a certain curiosity on his part about what it would be like to experience a life growing inside him. Then there was the desire for a child--he hadn't realized how much fatherhood meant to him until Scully took William away. Mulder sat up, swinging his feet off the bed. He stood and strolled over to the chair where his clothes were piled and started dressing.

The four men in the living room all turned and stared at Mulder when he entered.

"Fox, Doctor Moore is making a list of the prenatal vitamins you'll need to be taking," Doggett said.

Skinner crossed the room and hugged Mulder. "Fox, are you okay?"

"I'm fine. I'm going to go through with the pregnancy."

"Are you sure?"

"I'm sure, Walter. I'm scared shitless but--"

"We'll be at your side throughout it." Skinner took Mulder's hand in his.

Mulder squeezed Skinner's hand. "I've been doing some calculating. I'll be having the baby in June. So by February or March I'm going to be dropping out of sight. I should be able to cover up my condition until then--" Mulder looked at Doggett who was grinning from ear to ear. "What?"

"When you decide to go through with something you don't mess around." Doggett pulled him into an embrace. "Thank you, Fox. I know this was a difficult decision for you to make." His smiled turned silly. "We're going to have a baby."

"We'll need to figure out what to put on the birth certificate when the baby is born," Skinner said.

Mulder held his head proudly. "We put down the truth, Walter. That John is the father and I am the baby's mother. I don't want there to be any question who the parents are, if we ever need to defend our rights to raise our child."

Skinner smiled. "Okay. Now that that's settled, what's our next step?"

Doggett couldn't contain his excitement. "First, we need to get you moved in with us. Second, we need to clear out the large back bedroom for the medical equipment and upgrade the wiring. Third, we need to turn the other bedroom into a nursery and child proof our house."

The Senator chuckled. "You have time to decorate the nursery. I better be on my way. Congratulations, boys...I'll keep in touch."

The Doctor held out his hand and shook each of their hands. "I'll be back when the medical equipment arrives. Since we're keeping this quiet, John, I want to train you and DD Skinner to assist me with the delivery of the baby."

"Anything you need, Doctor. And thank you." Doggett held the door open, closing it after the two men left.

Mulder walked into the kitchen. His stomach was churning with nervous excitement. He opened the dishwasher and started loading it.

Skinner touched his hand. "Fox, you don't have to do that. Why don't you go and relax. John and I can finish cleaning up."

"Walter, I'm not bedridden. I can still pull my own weight."

Doggett walked behind Mulder and hugged him, kissing the side of his face and neck. "You can't fault us for wanting to pamper you, Fox."

"Guys, I'm going to be carrying this kid for nine months. Let's give it a rest until I really need your help."

"Sure, Fox."

Skinner and Doggett both worked fast to clean the kitchen, getting in Mulder's way so that the younger man finally gave up and went to sit at the breakfast table. Mulder hoped his lovers would tire of coddling him.

***

Skinner couldn't take his eyes off Mulder as the young man stripped for bed. When Mulder went into the bathroom, Doggett walked over to Skinner, smirking.

"I bet we're thinking the same thing."

"How damned lucky we are?"

"Yep. Fox usually likes sleeping on the side nearest the bathroom, but I think he'll be sleeping in the middle from now on."

Mulder came out of the bathroom wearing a pair of blue pajama bottoms. He looked at his lovers both wearing only their briefs. "What are you two talking about?"

Doggett walked over and placed his hands on Mulder's hips. "Which side of the bed Walter is going to sleep on."

"Which side is that?"

"The side nearest the bathroom, since you'll be sleeping in the middle."

"Hmm, I think I'm going to like this arrangement," Mulder murmured. Running his hands over Doggett's bare chest as he gazed lustfully over at Skinner. "C'mon, Walter, let's see if the bed is big enough for the three of us."

Mulder scooted to the center of the bed as Doggett turned off the overhead lights. Skinner climbed in beside Mulder, turning on his side so he faced the younger man who was lying on his back. He placed his hand over Mulder's belly, relishing the feel of the warm flesh. "It so hard to believe that you have a baby growing inside you."

The bed dipped as Doggett stretched out on the other side of Mulder. "I'll say it's hard to believe. What do you want, Fox? A boy or a girl?"

"A healthy human would be nice."

"Seriously?"

"I don't really care. How about you?"

"A daughter," Doggett said. "What about you, Walter?"

Skinner was surprised to be included. "I've always wanted a son. Someone to carry on my name."

"That brings up a new issue. Fox, what do we name our child?"

"Good night, John boy," Mulder murmured tiredly, rolling on his side and resting his head on Doggett's shoulder. Reaching back, he pulled Skinner's arm over his hip and smiled as Skinner moved closer spooning behind him. Mulder thought, life at this moment was good.

***

University of Maryland
Thursday, October 31, 2002

Second Month - 1st trimester

Mulder rinsed out his mouth in the sink of the faculty washroom.

"Mulder, are you all right?" Burks asked, coming out of a stall.

"I'm fine, Chuck."

"You've been throwing up an awful lot lately." He washed and dried his hands, while glancing at Mulder with deep concern.

"How would you know that?"

"Men talk. We're worse gossips than women." Burks leaned against the sink. "Do you want to tell me what's going on?"

"It's just a flu bug--"

"I don't know too many flu bugs that make a person throw up every morning for weeks."

"Chuck, just drop it."

"Okay, but if you start gaining weight and wearing looser clothes, we're going to have a long talk." Chuck turned and left the washroom.

Oh great, Mulder thought. Why did one of his closest friends have to be a scientific expert on the paranormal? Mulder stepped out of the washroom.

"Hey, Professor Mulder! Are you handing out Halloween candy at your house tonight?" A couple of twenty-year-old male students ambled up to him.

"Yes." Mulder looked at their mischievous faces. "Let me remind you, Lenny and Ron. I live with two FBI agents, so no tepeeing our trees or egging our house."

"Would we do that?"

"Someone did over the 4th of July and the Olson sister's description matched you two gentlemen to a tee."

Ron slugged Lenny in the arm. "Lenny, I told you those old hags would rat us out."

Mulder sighed, "Guys, aren't you late for class?"

"No, Professor."

Mulder arched an eyebrow. "I'm late for class and you're both in my class."

"Oh."

***

Skinner parked his Lexus in the garage next to Mulder's car. Doggett's motorcycle was parked in the back of the garage. The agent preferred driving his truck to work. The truck he parked on the driveway behind Mulder's side of the garage, since Skinner and Doggett were usually the first to leave in the morning and the last to return home at night. Doggett's truck was already parked on the driveway. As usual Skinner was the last one home. He pulled his briefcase out of the backseat and headed toward the house.

The sun was almost down, meaning that the trick or treaters would soon be out in force. He used his key to get in the back door. The stereo was playing in the living room and the kitchen smelled of hot apple cider. Doggett stood at the stove, stirring the cider in a large kettle.

"Walter, you're just in time to sample," Doggett said, holding up a spoon. "Tell me if it needs more cinnamon?"

Skinner took a sip. "Nope. It's perfect. Where's Fox?"

"He's setting the bowl of candy by the front door."

Frohike came strolling into the kitchen. The little man was dressed as a punk rocker, complete with purple hair. "Hey, Skinman, welcome home! John, is the brew ready?"

"Yeah, Melvin, if you want to get a mug and help yourself."

Skinner watched as the little man ladled a small amount into a mug then he pulled a tiny bottle of rum out of his pocket and topped off the mug. "Melvin, we have a whole cabinet full alcohol, you didn't have to bring your own."

"I don't want Mulder to see me drinking. Especially, since he's unable to imbibe."

"Are John and Langly here?"

"Yeah they're in the living room arguing over the stereo," Frohike said.

"Hello, Captain Skinner, welcome home!" a low sultry female voice said.

Skinner groaned as Ingrid Olson sashayed across the kitchen. Her wide hips swinging seductively in the tight catwoman costume. "Ingrid, its Deputy Director not Captain."

"Oh, poor baby. I think you should have made Captain by now, handsome. You're every bit as good looking as that Captain Picard." She ran a bright red fingernail down Skinner's chest and purred, "Only you'd never be able to wear that uniform without driving every woman on the ship crazy as they gazed upon your jiggling manhood."

Skinner just looked at her speechless as Frohike and Doggett doubled over laughing.

Greta entered the kitchen, wearing a dominatrix costume complete with whip and six-inch spiked heels. "Oh, there you are, dear. Walter, I hope my sister isn't disturbing you. She's been dipping into the sherry all afternoon."

Skinner shook his head. "No, Greta. I'm about to beam up to my bedroom to change. Ladies, if you'll excuse me." He hurried out of the room, bumping into Mulder in the hallway.

"Walter, slow down."

Skinner kissed him quickly, not even commenting on the Indiana Jones costume Mulder was wearing. "I can't, Fox. Our horny neighbor is talking about my jiggling manhood, and my balls have crawled up inside my body for protection. It's damn uncomfortable."

Mulder chuckled. "They're a bit eccentric--"

"Fox, the gunmen are a bit eccentric. The Olson sisters are crazy. Did you ever see the movie Arsenic and Old Lace?" Skinner asked, starting up the stairs.

Mulder stared at him dumbfounded, not quite sure if he was joking or not. The doorbell rang and he went to answer it. Six adorable little firemen, ghosts, and vampires stood holding open their bags. Their parents stood on the sidewalk.

"TRICK OR TREAT!"

"You're all so cute!" He scooped up six full-sized candy bars and deposited one into each bag.

"THANK YOU!" The kids dashed off the stoop on their way to the next house.

As Mulder was closing the door a hand stopped it. "Hey, milk, let us in. We've brought treats." A tall muscular black man and slightly shorter woman entered the house carrying a foil-wrapped rectangle casserole dish.

Mulder smiled. "Hi, Sam, Claire. What did you bring?" Sam was a police detective with the DC PD. He lived in Mulder's old neighborhood and they still played basketball together on occasion.

"My famous, extra spicy chicken wings."

"Mm, I might have guessed. They're making my eyes water from here," Mulder quipped.

"Mulder, thanks for inviting us." Claire gave him a peck on the cheek. "Is that apple cider I smell?"

"Yep. John's special brew, just go back to the kitchen. He'll serve you each a mug and you can put the wings in the oven to heat up."

After they left, the next batch of kids arrived. Mulder passed out the candy and watched as they ran toward the next house. He smiled when he saw Jimmy Bond strolling up the walk. The young man was dressed in a Zorro costume.

They had quite a large crowd coming tonight--John's friends, Walter's friends, and his friends. It might be like trying to mix oil and water.

"Hey, mom to be, I brought you special flowers," Jimmy said, holding out the bouquet.

Mulder blushed, taking the peach roses. "Jimmy, my condition is a secret. Please don't discuss it with anyone else." He was going to kill Frohike for blabbing.

"No problemo, Mulder. Frohike has already sworn me to secrecy. I haven't even slipped around Langly and Byers."

Mulder had no idea why Frohike would tell Jimmy and not Langly or Byers. He was still kicking himself for even telling Frohike that he was pregnant. "Jimmy, can you man the door, while I put these in water?"

"Sure, Mulder," Jimmy said, selecting a candy bar to eat.

Mulder wandered back into the kitchen and selected a vase off the top of the baker's rack.

"Who are the roses from?" Doggett asked.

"Jimmy." Mulder glared at Frohike. "He knows. Someone with a big mouth told him."

"Fox, most of your close friends are going find out in a few months anyway," Doggett said.

"Find out what?" Sam asked, while monitoring oven.

"That I'm pregnant with John's baby."

"Okay, don't tell me."

Mulder shrugged his shoulders, heading back toward the hallway. "I need to relieve Jimmy."

The party was in full swing two hours later and the number of kids coming to the door had dropped off to only a handful. They ran out of food so Skinner called out for several large pizzas. The doorbell rang and Mulder hurried to answer it, thinking it was the pizza man.

Scully was standing on the stoop holding William. The eighteen-month-old was dressed in a Tweety Bird costume. "Hi, Mulder."

"Scully, what are you doing here?"

"I was needed to teach a seminar at Quantico. Didn't John tell you?"

"No."

The little boy held out his hands toward Mulder.

"Hey, Wee Willie." Mulder took him from Scully, hugging and cuddling the little boy against his chest. It had been nearly five months since he'd seen his son last. "Come in, Scully."

"You and John are having a party." Scully observed.

"John, Walter, and I are. Walter's living with us now."

"Why would he be living with you?"

Mulder looked wearily at her as he steered her into the kitchen. The living room was too crowded and noisy to talk. The kitchen and breakfast area weren't much better. They had almost a hundred guests milling around. Some had taken refuge outside on the porches off the dining room and breakfast area. Mulder couldn't see John or Walter in the mix of people. He frowned. "Let's go upstairs."

Mulder led her back through the hallway, up the stairs and into their bedroom. He set William on the floor and closed the door as soon as Scully entered.

She looked around the bedroom, stopping at the dresser to look at the photographs. Most of the pictures were of Mulder and John, only a couple was of them and Skinner. Then she wandered over to the French door leading out onto the veranda. She'd been at their house before to pick up William, but never upstairs. She was usually in too much of a hurry and turned down Mulder's requests that she stay and talk. "This is really nice, Mulder. Monica and I could only afford a small place in San Francisco."

"We like it."

"I wouldn't mind having a tour of the place."

Mulder's mind flashed to the medical equipment set up in the back bedroom. How would he explain that to Scully? Or the nursery that John and Walter were working on. At least they hadn't moved the bassinet into the bedroom. "Maybe some other time. I saw Frohike and Greta heading upstairs...no telling what those two are doing."

"Greta?"

"A neighbor of ours."

"So are you going to tell me what Skinner is doing living here?"

"He's our lover."

"Yours and John's? Are all three of you...?" Scully stared at the big bed.

"Sleeping together? Yes."

"I'm not sure how I feel about that, Mulder."

"You don't have to feel anything. This doesn't concern you."

"It does if I allow you to see William--"

"You moved to San Francisco so I wouldn't be able to see him. So what's your point?" Mulder felt suddenly angry and on edge.

"That's not why we moved and you know it!"

"No, I don't. You never told me why you requested a transfer, other than looking for a better environment to raise our son. There are a lot of closer field offices you could have transferred to."

"Not all of them are open to two women living together."

"Scully, don't put me in the position of choosing between my son and my lovers." His anger melted to anxiety as his voice trembled.

"I'm not denying you from seeing William. You can see William whenever you come out to San Francisco, but I don't want him to visit you here. It would be too hard for him to understand why his Dad is sleeping with two men."

"Okay, fine, whatever. I knew going in I was only the sperm donor, so I shouldn't be surprised that I have no say about our son."

"Mulder, you're being childish now."

"Scully, maybe you'd better leave, before I say something I'll regret."

"Okay. I'm staying at my mother's house if you want to stop by to see William you have all weekend. We'll be leaving on Monday." Scully picked up William and headed out the door.

Mulder sat on the bed and stared off into space as tears slowly made their way down his cheeks. He couldn't understand his jumbled emotions or why he allowed Scully to get to him this way.

Skinner came strolling in the room. "Fox, I just saw Scully...." He stopped as he noticed Mulder's tear-stained face. "What did she do?"

Mulder shrugged his shoulders. He wasn't about to tell Skinner what Scully had said to him. "Nothing. You know I've been overly emotional lately. I hate this, Walter."

Skinner kneeled beside the bed, placing his hand on Mulder's knee. "Your hormones are out of whack. We'll talk to Doctor Moore and see if there's something he can prescribe."

"I'm going to take a shower and go to bed. Say goodbye to our guests for me." Mulder stood and headed into the bathroom.

Skinner watched him before standing and heading out the door. He thought about calling Scully and finding out just what she had said to Mulder, but decided against it.

End of Part 11

***

Thanksgiving
Thursday, November 28, 2002

Third Month - 1st trimester

Looking into the bathroom mirror, Mulder frowned at the pimple on his chin and the puffiness around his eyes. He'd been so tired lately. Today of all days, he wanted to look his best. He was meeting Walter's parents, sisters and their spouses and children for the first time and he had a zit. John's parents were also coming along with his younger brother. It made Mulder sad that he had no family left. He was the last...he paused and placed his hand over the slight swell of his belly barely noticeable at ten weeks. Well, maybe not the last. Then, of course there was also William...Scully.

"Fox, do you want to come downstairs and help us?" Skinner asked from the doorway.

"I look like shit. I can't remember ever having a pimple, even as a teenager."

Looking at his handsome lover, Skinner believed him. "It's not that noticeable, just put some of that blemish cream Doctor Moore sent over on it."

Mulder sighed dramatically as he reached for the tube. "Your parents are going to hate me."

"They're not going to hate you."

"They're going to blame me for corrupting you. Just you watch."

"Fox, I had a long talk with them about you and John. They might not be happy, but they've accepted that this is my life and my decision to make. Once they meet you and John, I'm positive that they'll like both of you." Skinner was more worried about his brother-in-laws.

"We better finish preparing dinner, they should be here pretty soon," Mulder said, fixing his tie.

They walked back downstairs together. Mulder paused in the dining room to admire the table. Skinner had put in the extra leaves and used their best linen tablecloth. The table in the breakfast room was set for the children.

The doorbell rang and Mulder glanced nervously at Skinner and followed him to the front door.

"I bet it's my parents. They're always early." Skinner opened the door and smiled. "Mom, Dad, how was the drive from Buffalo?" He took the suitcase from his father. They were going to be staying the night in the guestroom.

Doctor Ed Skinner pulled his son into a hug and said, "Not too bad, Walter. Luckily they aren't predicting snow until next week."

"May I take your coats?" Mulder asked, feeling awkward.

"Mom, Dad, this is Fox Mulder."

Mulder held out his hand. "It's a pleasure to meet you both. We're happy you were able to make it."

"It's nice to meet you, Fox," Mrs. Skinner said, as she and her husband took off their coats and handed them to him.

"Well, Fox, we wanted to meet the men who have turned our Christian son away from women--" Doctor Skinner started to say.

Mrs. Skinner interrupted, "I can see why. Walter, Fox is adorable. Don't you think so, Ed?" She didn't give him time to answer as she placed her hand on Mulder's forearm. "Come, dear, show me to the kitchen so I can help with dinner. Oh and call me, Nina."

Mulder smiled at the charming gray-haired woman as he led her down the hallway. "We have most of it ready, but we could use your expert assistance. This is the first Thanksgiving meal we've attempted." He stopped at the hall closet and hung up the coats.

Skinner glared at his father. "Dad, I'll show you up to the guestroom, then give you a tour of our house." He led the way to the third floor guestroom.

Back in the kitchen, Doggett wiped his hands on a towel. "Mrs. Skinner, it's a pleasure to meet you."

"John, please call me Nina. Walter's told us a lot about you." She nodded her head toward the apron he was wearing. "If you have another apron I'd like to help."

Doggett was about to say it wasn't necessary, but Mulder shook his head and said, "We have a couple more aprons. They might be a bit long." Mulder opened the pantry door and pulled two aprons off the hook, handing one to Mrs. Skinner and putting the other on over his suit.

"Thank you, Fox."

Upstairs, Skinner senior was examining the extensive medical equipment in one of the back bedrooms. "Walter, do you want to tell me what's going on? Who's pregnant?" Skinner's father was a general practitioner. He'd practiced family medicine for almost fifty years and knew the use for the assembled equipment and medicines.

"This is one of the reasons I brought you up here. Dad, I know this is going to sound incredible, but Fox is pregnant with John's baby. The equipment is so we can keep his condition a secret while he is under the care of a highly qualified obstetrician."

Doctor Skinner looked closely at his son. "You're not yanking my chain are you, Son?"

"No, Dad."

"How is this possible?"

"When we were abducted ten weeks ago, our abductor had special powers. He ah...he changed Fox into a hermaphrodite during a ceremony that involved sacrificing a young woman. We haven't been able to find any trace of him or anything about the young woman's identity. There have been no missing person's reports filed." Skinner hadn't thought there would be, considering what he'd learned about Jena from the three days being confined with her.

Doctor Skinner was having a hard time believing his son. "Walter, would Fox allow me to examine him?"

"Dad, this is a very sensitive subject with us. When Fox is further along, he might allow you to listen to the baby's heartbeat." Skinner watched his father check the medical equipment.

Skinner was shocked by his father's next question.

"Do you think he'll be agreeable to having your child?"

"Dad, I doubt he'll want to go through this more than once."

"Pity. I really would have liked a grandson to carry on the Skinner name."

Skinner sighed. "Dad, even if Fox and I were to have a son together, he'll more than likely be named Mulder."

"No, Walter, the baby is always named after the father."

"Not always, Dad." This conversation was getting too strange for Skinner. "Let's go downstairs to the living room. John has a bottle of Rock and Rye, I know you used to drink it when I was a boy."

"I still drink it, but it's getting harder to find."

"One more thing, Dad. We want to keep this quiet, so don't tell anyone."

***

Nina Skinner was enjoying the company of her son's boyfriends. She found John to be very polite and Fox to be charming. She wished her two daughter's husbands were more like her son's friends.

"Mrs. Skinner, would you like a glass of wine?" Mulder asked, taking one of the bottles of Pinot Noir from the refrigerator.

"Fox, I told you to call me Nina," she said, pouring the corn pudding mixture into a casserole. "And yes, I'd love a glass of wine if you and John will be joining me."

Doggett pulled two wineglasses out of the cabinet. "I'll join you, Nina. For medical reasons Fox isn't supposed to be drinking alcohol. We bought some sparkling apple cider for him and the kids."

"Walter never mentioned that you were ill, Fox."

"I'm not ill, Nina."

"Then what's wrong with you, dear?"

"According to your son, he's pregnant," Doctor Skinner said, entering the kitchen followed by his embarrassed son.

"Dad, I asked you not to mention anything," Walter said.

"I never keep secrets from your mother, Walter. It's why we've had a successful marriage for fifty years."

Mrs. Skinner looked at Mulder with concern. "Fox, is this true?"

Mulder frowned. "Nina, we really would like to keep this quiet."

"So, it's true?"

"Yes."

"Is Walter...?"

"No, John is."

"When's the baby due?"

"July 2nd...I'll be at forty-two weeks."

Nina patted Mulder on his hand. "Ed and I will be coming back in May to take care of you, dear."

"Nina, that isn't necessary--" Mulder started to say.

"Nonsense, Walter and John will be working and I don't think it's a good idea for you to be home alone. What if something happened?"

Skinner smiled. "Mom, that's a great idea. Fox, my Dad has delivered hundreds of babies while he was practicing medicine. If anything should happen he'll be able to take care of it."

Doggett nodded his head. "It sounds like a good idea to me. I was thinking we'd have to hire a live in nurse as Fox got closer to his delivery date. This would be even better."

"Dad, are you okay with this?" Skinner looked at his father, while ignoring Mulder's exasperated expression.

"Son, if he's really pregnant, I wouldn't miss it for all the tea in China."

"Walter, may I speak with you in private?" Mulder said.

Before Skinner could respond the doorbell rang. "Fox, couldn't this wait?" He didn't want to get in an argument with his lover on Thanksgiving.

Mulder frowned. "Okay. But we are going to talk before bed tonight."

John hurried to answer the door. His parents, Betty and Paul, and his younger brother, Rolf, were on the stoop carrying packages.

"Ma, yous guys didn't have to bring anything."

"Twaddle, Johnny. You know how much Fox loves my sweet potato pie, and of course, I wouldn't forget to bring your favorite chocolate pecan pie," Betty Doggett said. She was pudgy with a round, jolly face. Her auburn hair was styled in a bob framing her face.

"What's in the other bags?" Doggett asked worriedly.

"Photo albums. I thought Fox and Walter might want to see what a cutie pie you were."

Doggett groaned, looking pleadingly at his father.

"Son, I did try to stop her but you know your Ma." The senior Doggett was rail-thin a sharp contrast to his wife. His weathered skin was that of a man who had worked outdoors his whole life.

"Pa really did try, Johnny." Rolf chuckled.

"Hush, Boys," Betty said. "Johnny, now introduce us to Walter and where is Fox."

"They're in the kitchen with Walter's parents." Doggett took the bags from his mother. She'd been to their house before and knew the way to the kitchen. They followed in her wake.

She smiled broadly and threw open her arms when she spotted Mulder. "Fox, come give Ma some honey."

Mulder smiled and hurried over, hugging the short round woman. "Ma, it's so good to see you again."

"You're looking fine. What's that on your chin?"

"Ah...a blemish."

"Oh, my Johnny had the worse case of acne when he was a teenager." She looked over at Doggett. "Didn't ya, honey?"

"Yes, Ma." Doggett knew better than to extend his torture. Short simple answers were always the best with his mother.

"Ma, let me take your coat," Mulder offered, helping Mrs. Doggett off with her coat.

"You're such a gentleman, Fox. Your parents would be so proud of you, rest their souls."

"That's a beautiful dress, Mrs. Doggett," Skinner commented. He and his parents stood out of the way, during the jubilant greetings.

"Oh you must be Walter. I'm Betty, but you may call me Ma, and this is my husband, Paul, and our youngest boy, Rolf."

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Ma." He reached out to shake her hand, but she pulled him into a hug and stood on her tiptoes to plant a kiss on his cheek. Skinner blushed and turned to greet Paul Doggett. "Mr. Doggett--"

"Call me Paul, Walter." He had a firm handshake.

"Sure thing, Paul." Then Skinner turned to the youngest Doggett, who was in his early twenties. "Rolf, I bet you weren't teased much growing up with that name."

"Oh, only every day of my life."

Skinner chuckled, and turned toward his parents. "I'd like you all to meet my parents...Ed and Nina Skinner." The Doggetts and Skinners exchanged handshakes.

Betty Doggett clapped her hands together. "Why don't you boys, go play in the parlor, while Nina and I finish with supper."

"Ma, it's already done."

"Johnny, have you mashed the potatoes? Did you make the giblet gravy? Pan fry the kidneys for your Pa?"

Doggett lifted the cover off a sauté pan, inside were sautéed kidneys with sweet onions and bacon. He next lifted the cover off a pan of mashed potatoes and next to it, was a saucepan of giblet gravy. "Now, Ma, go into the parlor with Walter and he'll fix you a drink...I have a bottle of Jack Daniels."

Betty Doggett frowned at her son.

Mulder was checking out the pies that the Betty had baked. He walked over and kissed Betty on the cheek. "Thanks for remembering, Ma. You've made my day. You wouldn't believe the craving I've been having for your sweet potato pie."

Betty's frown turned into a smile. "You're welcome, Fox. I never saw anyone who liked my sweet potato pie more than you."

He smiled sweetly at her. "Why don't you let us wait on you today?"

"Okay, honey." She turned to Nina who was sipping a glass of wine while listening to them. "Let's go join our men, Nina. I want to hear all about your Walter."

The doorbell rang as they were leaving the kitchen.

Doggett smiled at Mulder. "Thanks, Fox. Ma tends to be a little overbearing."

"I love your parents, John." Mulder pulled the serving bowls out of the cabinet while Doggett checked the turkey.

"Hey, Fox, the red button has finally popped up. I think I'll carve it in here."

The doorbell rang again as Doggett was pulling the carving set out of the drawer. Mulder started carrying bowls of food to the buffet table in the dining room. He could see Walter in the living room surrounded by five little girls. Next to them, were two women in their late thirties or early forties...it was hard to tell. He smiled at the strong family resemblance. Mulder went back into the kitchen for the casseroles and dinner rolls. As he was setting out the sweet potatoes with peaches and pecans, Walter stepped into the dining room with his sisters and their husbands.

"Fox, I'd like you to meet my sisters Barbara and Jill, and their better halves Hank and Joe."

"It's nice to meet you," Mulder said, holding out his hand. Walter's sisters shook it, along with Barb's husband Hank. Joe was a bit standoffish.

"And these are my lovely nieces." Walter touched each of their heads as he introduced them. "Katie, Rose, Carol, Susan, and Tricia." They ranged in age from eight up to twelve.

"Hi girls. I hope you're hungry."

"We're starving! Your house smells really good," Rose said.

"Fox, you guys have a lovely home. Are you going to decorate it for Christmas?" Jill asked.

"Yes. We're going to string white lights on the trees in the front yard--"

"And we plan to decorate the inside," Skinner said. "I know you're busy with your in-laws Christmas day, but we were hoping you'll be able to stop by Christmas Eve...Mom and Dad are if the weather permits."

"Yes! Mommy, can we...please?" Susan asked.

"We'll see, Susan."

Doggett came out carrying a platter of carved turkey. "Hey, who brought all the pretty girls?"

"We're Uncle Walter's nieces," Tricia said as her sister and cousins giggled.

"Well, it's a good thing I made extra food."

Mulder walked back into the kitchen while Walter introduced John to his relatives. He was feeling rather melancholy after seeing the love that existed between his lovers, their parents and siblings. Something he was denied after Samantha was abducted. He tried to turn his thoughts away from his pathetic childhood years and focus on how happy he was now. If he didn't, he'd end up crying again, something he was doing too much of lately. Carrying the basket of rolls to the buffet table, he interrupted Walter. "Walter, can you let everyone know that it's time to eat. I'm going to get the wine and cider."

Barbara and Jill helped their daughters fill their plates and carry them through the kitchen to the breakfast room. The table was nicely set with a linen tablecloth and napkins. It had a short bouquet of flowers, and they used their good crystal and silver.

Mulder opened the wine and cider in the kitchen. "Would you, ladies, like sparkling cider, milk, or juice with your meals?"

"Do you have Pepsi?" Rose asked.

"No. We don't have any pop in the house...sorry."

"Then I'll have the cider."

"Me, too." Katie held up her glass to be filled.

"Me, three." Carol smiled sweetly. She was the youngest.

Mulder smiled back, filling their glasses. The girls were all wearing pretty dresses with matching tights.

"Fox, I'll take the wine into the dining room," Jill offered.

"Thanks, Jill."

"I want milk, please," Tricia said.

"What type of juice do you have?" Susan asked as Mulder walked over to the refrigerator for the milk.

"Orange, grape, cranberry, and tomato."

"I'll have grape juice."

"Fox, do you need any help?" Nina asked from the doorway.

"Grandma, isn't our table pretty?" Susan said.

"It's very pretty. Your uncle and his boyfriends did a fine job of decorating."

Mulder finished pouring Susan's juice. "Nina, I have everything under control. Girls, if you need anything just shout. Your grandmother and I are going to be in the main dining room."

"Thank you," Susan said. And the other girls chimed in.

"You're welcome."

The dining room table was a little crowded. They had managed to fit twelve chairs around it. Mulder noticed that his spot had been moved to between Nina and Betty. He filled his plate as Walter walked around filling the wineglasses. They waited until everyone was seated before Doctor Skinner led them in grace.

The conversation around the table started with catching up on family matters. Mulder listened as he ate. He enjoyed hearing about Walter's nieces.

Nina turned to Mulder. "Fox, I take it both your parents have passed on?"

"Yes."

"Do you have any brothers or sisters?"

"I had a sister, but she died a long time ago." Walter interrupted from across the table. "Mom, this isn't the best time for this conversation." He could see that Mulder was starting to become withdrawn. It seemed the slightest thing made his lover cry lately.

"Why, Walter?"

"Mom, let's just leave it for now, please," Skinner said.

"Okay, Dear." Nina turned back to Mulder. "So what are you hoping to have, Fox?"

"MOM!" Skinner nearly choked on his wine.

Doggett swallowed nervously, looking over at his parents. "Nina, we wanted to keep this as a surprise."

Betty looked inquisitively at her son. "Johnny, you know I don't much care for surprises. Nina, what did you mean?"
Mulder sipped his sparkling cider as he watched his lovers try to keep a lid on his pregnancy. Things were starting to get interesting.

"Sorry, Betty, it isn't my place to say."

"Fox?" Betty looked pleadingly at him. She really hated having things kept from her. "Ma, she wants to know if I'd prefer having a boy or a girl." Mulder turned to Walter's mother. "Nina, it really doesn't matter to me, but John would like a daughter, so I guess I'm hoping for a girl," Mulder said calmly. Lifting his fork, he scooped up some mash potatoes.

"You can't be thinking of adopting a child! No court in their right mind would allow three gay men to adopt a baby," Joe said.

"We're not adopting," Mulder said, ignoring the insult. Skinner glared across the table at his brother-in-law. "Joe, if we had decided to adopt they'd take our character into consideration. I don't think we'd have any problem, but as Fox said we're not adopting."

"Did you hire a woman to be a surrogate mother? That would make sense since you don't know what sex the baby is," Jill said. "What if she changes her mind?"

"We didn't hire a surrogate." Mulder dunked his roll into the gravy.

"Okay, so you're not adopting or hiring a surrogate. What's left?" Paul Doggett asked.

Mulder looked him in the eye and said, "I'm pregnant with John's baby."

Paul looked back then started to laugh. "Oh you boys had us going but good there! How long have you been working on that joke? And, for shame, getting Walter's mother involved."

"You've caught us, Paul." Mulder winked at Nina then went back to eating.

Rolf looked quizzically at Mulder and his brother. Something was definitely up with them.

Betty sighed; she really wanted to be grandmother again. "I think you boys, should consider adopting."

"Mrs. Doggett, a child needs a *mother* and a father, not three fathers," Joe said.

"A child needs a loving family, and there is plenty of love in this household," Betty said. "My son was an excellent father to his son, Luke...God rest his soul."

Doggett set his fork down. "Look, Joe, it's none of your business if we decide to bring a child into our family. You seem to be of the opinion that gay men aren't fit to raise a child. What do you think we are: pedophiles, sexual predators, perverts?"

Joe stood his ground. "It's not normal. If God had meant for two men to have a baby together he'd have made it possible, but he didn't, you need a woman for that."

"Not necessarily," Mulder muttered under his breath, only Nina heard him. Everyone else's attention was focused on John and Joe.

"Joe, it still isn't any of your business whether we adopt a child or whether Fox gives birth to one," Doggett said.

"Yeah, well, if he can give birth to one then you'll get no argument from me," Joe scoffed.

Doctor Skinner had enough. "Joe, let it drop. We're here to celebrate Thanksgiving, not to argue about morality."

"But you do agree with me, Dad, don't you?" Joe asked.

Doctor Skinner gave it some thought. "No...I don't. Walter would make an excellent father and I believe the same about Fox and John. Joe, I've treated many abused children over the years that came from households with a mother and a father. Now that is all I'm going to say about this matter."

Everyone became quiet for a few moments after that, then they steered their conversation on to safer subjects. Dinner ended and Walter's sisters and brother-in-laws offered to do the dishes.

Walter took Mulder's hand and led him upstairs to their bedroom. "Fox, I'm sorry I told my Dad before checking with you. I hope you're not too angry."

"Walter, it's not that. We're eventually going to have to tell John's parents." Mulder opened the French door and stepped out onto the veranda. "Your parents are nice, I just don't want to put them out. They must have better things they could be doing in May and June, instead of babysitting me."

Skinner was confused as he followed his lover out onto the veranda. "Fox, I figured you wouldn't want anyone to take care of you."

"Are you kidding? My biggest fear is that I'll go into premature labor and not be able to reach Doctor Moore or you and John. Walter, I don't want to have this kid alone." Mulder shivered as the cold air bit through his dress shirt.

Skinner wrapped his arms around Mulder from behind as they stood at the railing. "I don't think you'll have to worry about that. Once Betty finds out, she and Paul will probably insist on staying with us, too."

Mulder chuckled. "Ma might be a little overbearing, but she's a great cook and a sweet lady."

"You seem comfortable around her and Paul."

"I've spent some time with them. They came to visit John and I on New Years when we first moved in here, and they drove up a few times in the spring last year. Over the fourth of July, John and I spent a week with them at their farm in North Carolina. It's only a three-hour drive from here. I really feel comfortable around them. They're totally accepting of our relationship." Mulder leaned back in Skinner's arms. "Betty and Paul are still broken-hearted over the loss of their only grandchild. I hope this child will take away some of their pain."

Skinner held him as they stood quietly for several minutes. "Fox, we should get back downstairs. I don't want to leave John alone with Joe for too long."

"I'll be down in a moment, Walter. I just want to spend a few quiet minutes alone."

Skinner turned Mulder's face toward him and gently kissed on the lips. "Thanks for putting up with my family."

Mulder smiled, watching Walter go went back inside.

End of Part 12

Next Part